How many Palestinian refugees are in Lebanon?
Al-Aardat: Approximately 350,000 are holders of UNRWA refugee documents, but there are many others that are not registered with any UN organization in Lebanon. In 2004-2005 we will probably have about 500,000 refugees in the camps around Lebanon, with the majority concentrated in the Ein el-Hilwe camp in Sidon. MP: What kind of activities does the PLO run inside the camps? Al-Aardat: We have many, different activities: Social, political and educational activities are among the most important. MP: Who provides you with the funds needed for these activities? Al-Aardat: Mainly the PLO, but there are a few international NGOs that work in coordination with the UN in order to provide healthcare and social services for the refugees. MP: The Ein el-Hilwe camp has the reputation for being the most dangerous camp in Lebanon. Is it true that you have weapons within the camp? Al-Aardat: What I can tell you is that the Palestinians are not terrorists. Even in camps, in these hard conditions we have
